Civic engagement at Cal Poly Humboldt is more important than ever as free speech on campuses and the upcoming presidential elections remain in the national conversation.

To support your freedom to express your beliefs in a safe and respectful environment, the California State University established its interim Time, Place and Manner policy. Under the policy, all 23 campuses in the CSU formed “response teams,” which will implement and enforce the TPM policy. 

Cal Poly Humboldt’s team, called the “Free Speech Response Team,” includes leaders from departments across campus whose purpose is to manage and promote initiatives in support of free speech in collaboration with the campus community. A significant Cal Poly Humboldt effort includes the formation of the Community Engagement Team.

Announced last month and managed by the Free Speech Response Team, the CET is a volunteer group of 24 faculty, staff, and students that supports free speech activities and de-escalates tense situations. CET volunteers are trained in de-escalation techniques and empathy and engagement skills to navigate emotionally-charged moments. Following the University’s call for volunteers, the response was overwhelming. Thank you to our members and everyone who expressed interest in joining the team!   

In addition to the CET, the University is sponsoring a series of educational programs for students, faculty, and staff to better understand the TPM, ask questions about free speech topics that matter to you, and engage with each other.

Efforts will focus on learning and professional development opportunities that address campus climate, enhance a culture of care, and other areas that foster student development, co-curricular engagement or teaching and learning within the context of the TPM policy.

Following significant interest in the Aug. 23 professional development TPM forum for employees, faculty and staff are invited to another TPM forum on Thursday, Sept. 19. Presented by Vice President for Administration & Finance Sherie Gordon and Vice President for Enrollment Management & Student Success Chrissy Holliday, the event will include a Q&A session, and lunch will be provided. Space is limited so please register by noon on Wednesday, Sept. 18.

Cal Poly Humboldt leaders plan to partner with Associated Students (AS) to host a student-focused overview of TPM and free speech guidelines on campus. There will be a Q&A session, and snacks will be provided. Date and time are to be determined after a TPM presentation to the AS Board on Sept. 20.

The educational opportunities growing out of the work of the Free Speech Response Team will move beyond TPM-focused sessions to include voter engagement, courageous conversations on a variety of topics, fostering collegiality within the campus community, and opportunities to learn about the variety of organizing and activism opportunities that have proven successful in key change movements throughout history. Please keep an eye out for details!